Project Background
Our Library’s Special Collections contains remarkable collections of antique maps. These maps are not just historical artifacts – they are stories waiting to be told.
In a digital age where technology shapes our interactions with information, we have an opportunity to enhance the appreciation of these treasures. By integrating advanced technology, such as Augmented Reality (AR), we can create a more interactive and engaging experience, allowing a broader audience to connect with the rich narratives embedded in these maps.
Project Goal
One of the main goals of this project is to explore and implement free Augmented Reality (AR) tools, which support in-house development without relying on external or third-party platforms.
In this project, we selected the map “Secunda etas mundi” as an experiment. We hope that the outcomes we showcase can demonstrate how AR can enhance the experience of viewing ancient maps, turning what was once a passive observation into an interactive engagement that brings forth the captivating stories they hold.
Additionally, we are sharing our source code below, hoping that other libraries, museums, and interested individuals can easily replicate and adopt our approach, and implement AR to their own items affordably, with enough flexibility for their own customizations.
Features highlights
Image Tracking in AR
Our team members conducted research and drew their own interpretations of map’s creatures. By using the image tracking function of MindAR, our illustrations will be triggered to pop up when you point your mobile device’s camera at the map. To learn more about the tales of that creature, simply click on the illustration!
Tips: You don’t have to stand in front of the physical map, you can easily access our digitized map on your computer and point your mobile device at the computer screen.
Face Tracking in AR
We have selected some notable features from the map’s creatures and created 3D versions of these traits. By applying the face tracking function of MindAR, these traits will appear on your face when you point the camera at yourself or someone else. Choose the traits on the left panel and click the link in the right panel to learn about the tales of the associated creature!
Note: Rest assured, no data or information is kept on our server when you use this function. Feel free to try it out!
Learn the Tales of Each Creature
Our team has researched each creature on the map. We invite you to explore and learn more about them!
Play with Our Augmented Reality (AR) below!
This project, funded by a generous donation from Dr. Ko Pui Shuen, is a collaboration between HKUST Library staff and undergraduate students from diverse science and technology disciplines. Students contributed as web developers, digital illustrators and storytellers to bring a 1493 world map from the Library’s Special Collections to life through Augmented Reality (AR) technology.
By recreating 2D and 3D visualizations of legendary characters depicted on the map, our team seeks to transform this historical artifact into an immersive, interactive experience. We invite you to explore the students’ creative designs and discover the fascinating stories and secrets hidden within this remarkable map.
Visit the website below to experience the highlighted features we mentioned above!
https://library.hkust.edu.hk/ds/project/p004/map/
Our Source Code
Curious about how we integrated AR into our website? Check out our GitHub repository below. Feel free to look through our source code and adapt it to suit your needs.
If you have any questions or find it helpful, we’d love to hear your thoughts and see your projects too. Feel free to reach out and share with us!
URL: https://github.com/hkust-lib-ds/P004-PUBLIC_Play-with-AR-on-Antique-map
Words from students
CHAN Ching, Crystal
BEng in Computer Engineering +
Minor in Humanities
Year 4
…this project allowed me to experiment with a completely new artistic approach. Additionally, collaborating with a large team and contributing as an artist rather than as a programmer was an eye-opening experience. It gave me a brand-new point of view on seeing the work and broadened my vision for future career pathway…this project was fun and fulfilling. I loved every step of the process, from research to creation, and I am proud of what our team has done.
LU Yan, Lucy
BSc in Integrative Systems and Design +
Extended Major in Digital Media and Creative Arts
Year 2
…Throughout this process, I learned to showcase my work confidently and have effectively improved my communication skill by expressing our thoughts and sharing ideas freely during our regular progress meetings. Additionally, I gained deeper insights into ancient maps…This project has significantly developed my 3D modelling skills, time management, and self-directed learning. I now feel more equipped to tackle complex tasks and resolve issues independently…
WONG Sze Chai Helen
BSc in Biochemistry and Cell Biology
(International Research Enrichment Track)
Year 4
…As a life science student, this was my first time to work on designing, developing, and deploying a webpage. There has been quite a steep learning curve in grasping the essentials of web development…along with the relevant libraries for creating AR effects at the beginning of the project. However, it was incredibly satisfying to see my code come to life after all the hard work and trial and error!…Another key takeaway for me was improving my scholarly practices, particularly in referencing. While I was already familiar with citing journal articles from my studies, this project required me to work with more complex sources, such as antique books and biblical texts…
YIP Sau Lai, Sherry
BSc in Data Science and Technology +
Additional major in Computer Science
Year 4
…This experience, being my first exposure to AR technology and web development using HTML, offered invaluable opportunities to learn about AR applications and to practice creating a complex website to showcase our AR work and extensive information…As the project progressed, I learned to organize code, display configurations, and data more effectively…I am grateful for the opportunity to merge creativity with technology, enhancing my skills in both AR and web development. This journey has not only deepened my understanding of these fields but also inspired me to explore further possibilities in digital storytelling and interactive design.
Zeynep TURK
BEng in Computer Science +
Extended Major in Digital Media and Creative Arts
Year 2
This has been a remarkable experience that deeply resonated with both my academic interests and creative passions. My role centered around researching and illustrating the mythical characters featured on this historical map…Working with a team of passionate and talented individuals brought a unique energy to the project. We shared feedback, bounced ideas off each other in a very energetic and positive working environment. I learned not only from the project itself, but also from the diverse perspectives and approaches of my teammates…
Project Team
Developers
- CHAN Ching, Crystal ◇ Year 4 student, BEng in Computer Engineering + Minor in Humanities
- LU Yan, Lucy ◇ Year 2 student, BSc in Integrative Systems and Design + Extended Major in Digital Media and Creative Arts
- WONG Sze Chai Helen ◇ Year 4 student, BSc in Biochemistry and Cell Biology (International Research Enrichment Track)
- YIP Sau Lai, Sherry ◇ Year 4 student, BSc in Data Science and Technology + Additional major in Computer Science
- Zeynep TURK ◇ Year 2 student, BEng in Computer Science + Extended Major in Digital Media and Creative Arts
Advisers
- Victoria F CAPLAN ◇ Head (Research & Learning Support)
- Shirley ZHANG ◇ Librarian (Archives & Special Collections)
- Holly CHAN ◇ Assistant Manager (Digital Humanities)
- Amanda MAK ◇ Officer (Systems & Digital Services)
- Erin CHAN ◇ Assistant Officer (Research Support)